Illegal teeth whitener successful prosecuted

Teeth whitening, if done badly, can cause serious long term problems to the teeth and gums. Because the process can involve some fairly dangerous substances (bleach) it is essential it is carried out by someone who is trained and knows what they are doing.

The industry is so unregulated at present, but the consequences can be devastating for patients such as burns to gums, blistered lips and even a trip to A&E after swallowing bleach.

The GDC (General Dental Council) is really trying to clamp down on the illegal clinics that offer cheap cosmetic dental procedures like teeth whitening treatments. They successfully prosecuted an unregistered dental worker who had set up a clinic without the necessary registration or qualifications to practice.

An investigation into the 42 year old woman’s teeth whitening business was initiated after a visit by Trading Standards raised concerns over the legitimacy of the business. The GDC were contacted and their own investigations confirmed the suspicions that she was not registered or qualified to do any of the treatments

The owner was prosecuted for being prepared to practise dentistry, namely teeth whitening, contrary to Section 38 (1) and (2) of the Dentists Act 1984. They have since disbanded the business. She was fined £1,750 and ordered to pay GDC costs of £2,500, as well as a £200 victim surcharge by a magistrate’s court after carrying out teeth whitening illegally

A spokesperson for the GDC said: “……. is not a dental nurse and she has never been registered with the GDC.

“Only GDC registered dental professionals are legally allowed to practise dentistry in the UK, so the prosecution has not resulted in her being banned from practising dentistry — she was never allowed to do this in the first place.

“We were alerted to this case following a referral from Trading Standards in Salford, following which our investigators and solicitors investigated and gathered evidence.”

If you think you may have experienced complications from any dental procedure, cosmetic or otherwise then we can help you. Claimant Law are a specialist personal injury team who have a proven track record in dental negligence cases. Call us today for a free no-obligation assessment of your case on 01625 506655.